Adhere to speed limits this long weekend. That’s the call from Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku, with tomorrow (Friday) being a public holiday. Silecu says speeding not only increases the likelihood of incidents but also reduces reaction time and makes it more difficult to avoid hazards.

Adhere to speed limits this long weekend

He says the faster a vehicle travels, the greater the force of impact in a collision. This he says can lead to often devastating consequences. The MEC added, that at high speeds, drivers have less time to respond to sudden obstacles, traffic changes, or emergencies. He says excessive speed also makes it harder to navigate bends, avoid obstacles, and maintain stability of a vehicle. Silecu says vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, are often most at risk.

Western Cape Government urges motorists to adhere to speed limits ahead of the long weekend

At the same time, his department issued 200 speeding fines across the province, during 10 to 16 March. The highest recorded speed was 160km/h in a 120km/h zone. He says excessive speeding continues to be one of the most significant contributors to road crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

At this time, the Western Cape Government is urging motorists to prioritise road safety by adhering to speed limits, especially as many prepare to travel over the upcoming long weekend.

The Western Cape Government wishes travellers a safe journey, and appeals to motorists to be considerate and careful as they make their way to their destinations and back safely home.

The Western Cape Mobility Department has given motorists tips to ensure a safe and incident-free long weekend:

• Stick to the prescribed speed limits at all times. Speeding is not worth the risk.
• Allow enough time to reach your destination, without the need to rush, or accept that you will arrive later than planned at your destination.
• Maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.
• Stay focused on the road and avoid using mobile phones, or engaging in other distractions while driving.
• Ensure everyone is buckled up. This will significantly reduce the chances of serious injury.
• Fatigue impairs judgement and reaction time. During long trips, stop and rest every two hours (or 200km).
• Reduce speed when visibility is poor or in heavy traffic conditions.